Consumer technology and the possibilities of the smart home could be the 'next big thing’ according to a new study by market research organisation GfK. The majority of UK consumers are aware of the term ‘smart home’ (91%) and almost half (47%) think that it will have more impact on their lives than wearable devices (31%).
Living ‘smart’ does not mean living clinical, automated houses where every need is anticipated and met by robots or automated appliances. Smart home is about harnessing technology in our existing environments to make everyday tasks easier, freeing up valuable time to get on and enjoy life. So what do UK consumers find most appealing about a smart home?
∆ Security and control - 38%
∆ Entertainment and connectivity - 36%
∆ Energy and lighting - 36%
∆ Health - 29%
∆ Household appliances - 28%
Whilst this is good news for retailers, manufacturers, utilities and telecoms companies, what is the real benefit to householders?
Ranj Dale, director,
GfK: “It’s important to remember that this is about people’s homes. As well as ‘smart’, any new technology needs to be attractive and comfortable. It has to blend in and adapt to our lives and not the other way around.
The smart home mix
As with any new technology, high cost is often a barrier to adoption at the beginning. As more manufacturers enter the market, prices will drop and people will be able to enjoy the benefits.
At the moment however, many of the smart products are expensive – for instance a smart washing machine is about three times as expensive as a standard one. The survey showed four in 10 (37%) currently see high prices as a barrier. Today’s savvy householders will be ready to adopt the right technology when it’s more affordable.
Trust and privacy
With so many applications of smart technology in the home, there are a myriad of organisations – not just the global technology giants – interested in the business opportunities. The research asked consumers whom they trust to deliver the smart home, and at present there isn’t a single brand that stands out.
Consumers are aware that a smart appliance could be collecting data about them so brand trust will play a crucial part in this market. Suppliers need to be sure to deliver the benefits of freedom, safety and security and cost-efficiency and crucially, not encroach on personal privacy in the home.
Ranj Dale, director, GfK: “It’s important to remember that this is about people’s homes. As well as ‘smart’, any new technology needs to be attractive and comfortable. It has to blend in and adapt to our lives and not the other way around.
The smart home mix
As with any new technology, high cost is often a barrier to adoption at the beginning. As more manufacturers enter the market, prices will drop and people will be able to enjoy the benefits.
At the moment however, many of the smart products are expensive – for instance a smart washing machine is about three times as expensive as a standard one. The survey showed four in 10 (37%) currently see high prices as a barrier. Today’s savvy householders will be ready to adopt the right technology when it’s more affordable.
Trust and privacy
With so many applications of smart technology in the home, there are a myriad of organisations – not just the global technology giants – interested in the business opportunities. The research asked consumers whom they trust to deliver the smart home, and at present there isn’t a single brand that stands out.
Consumers are aware that a smart appliance could be collecting data about them so brand trust will play a crucial part in this market. Suppliers need to be sure to deliver the benefits of freedom, safety and security and cost-efficiency and crucially, not encroach on personal privacy in the home.
